How to Get an Edge in Interviews
We are in a 'buyer's job market', with fewer jobs being chased by more job seekers. Despite signs of economic recovery, the predominant mindset of companies is still one of cost-control and hiring freezes. Although not as hard-hit as technology fields, the finance and accounting job market hasn't been insulated from this trend. If you are looking for a job, it is more necessary than ever to hone the techniques you use.Contrary to common expectations, the emergence of the Internet as a key component of the recruitment process has reinforced rather than diminished the importance of the resume. A necessary step in an effective job search is, therefore, to perfect your resume. There is no shortage of advice on this subject. There are many good websites available, ask us for some suggestions.
Sending out your resume is, of course, only a first step in the process. Once you get through the resume screen, the interview becomes the most important focus. Below are some tips to improve your performance during the interview process:
Know Your Resume
When you are interviewed, whether by phone or face-to-face, you should expect to be asked questions about your resume. If you haven't been interviewed recently, you probably haven't been giving much thought to what you were doing, say, five years ago. A good idea, therefore, is to prepare professional anecdotes for each stage of your career. Prepare examples that illustrate skills or strengths that you want to demonstrate.
Anticipate Likely Questions
Certain stock questions get asked over and over again by interviewers. You need to have prepared answers to them and not be left groping for an answer during interview. Some of the obvious ones are: 'Why do you want to work for this company?'; 'Why did (would) you leave your last (current) job?'; 'What are your strengths/weaknesses?'
Research Your Target
The more you know about the organization that is interviewing you the better. An obvious starting point is their corporate website. However, you will have an advantage if you can dig deeper: search further on the web (try searching on the company name in search engines and see what comes up); ask friends if they know the company or if they know anyone who works there; make inquiries through professional organizations and at conferences.
Prepare Your References
If you give references to an organization that is interviewing you, make sure you get to your referees first. Not only is this courteous, but it enables you to brief your referees on the organization that will contact them.
Send a 'Thank You' Note
In today's frenetically paced communication environment, it is easier than ever to forget to send a 'thank you' note to someone who has interviewed you. Don't forget. It may make the difference.
Solicit Feedback
By virtue of the law of numbers, you are almost certain to be rejected after some of your interviews. Don't take 'no' for an answer - ask why you got rejected. Although you may not always get a candid response, useful feedback will often come if you make a habit of asking.
Credentia Staffing is here to assist you in this process. Please ask for help! We would be happy to schedule time to role play, prepare you for specific interviews, provide you with information about the company you are interviewing with, and whatever additional coaching/mentoring you may request. Your success is our success!